Purchase of cisco switches & hardware

Chatham County, Georgia is conducting a competitive bid (Bid No. 25-0093-6) for the purchase of Cisco networking hardware, specifically seeking two Cisco 9500 48-port switches and associated networking equipment. The procurement is a one-time hardware purchase that does not include programming or installation services. Bidders must be Cisco Partners listed on the official Cisco Partner website and provide at least three references for Cisco hardware sales within the past five years. The detailed hardware requirements include Cisco C9500-48Y4C-A switches with Advantage License, DNA Advantage license, secondary power supplies, copper and fiber optic cables, and SFP modules. The bid is scheduled to be opened on August 1st, 2025 at 2:00 PM, with an expected delivery timeline of eight weeks after contract award. All equipment must be new and remain in factory-sealed boxes, and the county intends to award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The county has established a 30% Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) participation goal for this procurement, though this is considered a goal for subcontracting opportunities rather than a strict requirement. Potential bidders must complete various compliance documents, including affidavits related to drug-free workplace policies, non-discrimination statements, and work authorization verification. The bid attracted responses from 16 different technology vendors, with total bid costs ranging from $52,248 to $561,389. The lowest initial bid was submitted by V3Main Technologies at $52,248, while the highest bid came from Oxymedtrans at $561,389.91. Contractors are required to demonstrate good faith efforts in M/WBE participation, including soliciting interest from certified businesses, providing adequate contract information, and assisting minority businesses in obtaining necessary resources. The procurement includes support contracts for one year and emphasizes fair contracting practices with strict provisions against kickback arrangements.